HIV Among Youth in the U.S.

Young gay and bisexual males at greatest risk for HIV

Most new HIV infections in youth (about 70%) occur in gay and bisexual males; most are African Americans.

Sexually active young gay and bisexual males

• Have higher risk for getting HIV if they are having sex with older or multiple partners, using drugs or alcohol, or not using condoms during every sexual encounter.
• Should get an HIV test at least every year. Those at greater risk could benefit from testing as often as every 3 to 6 months.
• Aren’t always getting HIV prevention education that is accurate and effective.
• For HIV information for youth, contact your local community health center or state health department, or visit CDC’s website (https://www.AIDS.gov/external icon or https://www.cdc.gov/ msmhealth/).

HIV Affects Everyone

• Risk for HIV
• not knowing the fact or personal risk
• having sex
• alcohol or drug use with sex
• sex with older partners who may be more likely to be infected
• injecting drugs
• no condoms
• not tested
• not treated